Are you craving tender, juicy pulled pork that falls apart at the slightest touch? Look no further! This Boston Butt rub recipe will transform your humble pork shoulder into a culinary masterpiece. Perfect for a weekend feast or a quick weeknight dinner, this easy recipe delivers big on flavor and is surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky depth)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Preparing the Boston Butt:
- Start with a quality pork shoulder: A 4-6 pound Boston butt (pork shoulder) is ideal for this recipe. Trim away any excess fat, but leave a thin layer for moisture.
- Pat it dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the pork shoulder. This helps the rub adhere better and creates a nice crispy bark.
Making the Rub:
- Combine the spices: In a small bowl, combine all the spices listed above. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Generously rub the pork: Apply the spice rub generously all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat every inch. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Cooking the Pulled Pork:
Option 1: Slow Cooker (Easy Recipe for Busy Nights):
- Place the pork in the slow cooker: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Shred the pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat.
Option 2: Oven (For a Crispy Bark):
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the pork in a roasting pan: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan and add about 1 cup of water or broth to the bottom of the pan. This helps prevent drying.
- Cook for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender. You may need to add more liquid during cooking if the pan dries out.
- Shred the pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding.
Serving your Pulled Pork:
Serve your delicious pulled pork on buns with your favorite coleslaw, BBQ sauce, or simply enjoy it on its own. This versatile dish makes a perfect addition to quick dinner ideas or a celebratory meal.
Tips for the Best Pulled Pork:
- Don't overcrowd your slow cooker: If using a slow cooker, ensure there's enough space for the pork to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the pork to ensure it reaches 190-195°F (88-91°C) for food safety.
- Let the pork rest: Allowing the pork to rest before shredding helps retain moisture and makes it easier to shred.
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Increase the cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Sweet and Smoky Pulled Pork: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar to the rub.
- Apple Cider Pulled Pork: Add a cup of apple cider to your slow cooker or roasting pan for a hint of sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your pork shoulder and the added ingredients. However, a general estimate for a 4-ounce serving of pulled pork is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
Enjoy your incredibly flavorful and tender pulled pork! This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite among your healthy meals and best recipes. It's a perfect example of how delicious dishes can also be easy recipes to prepare.